A Good Year

Version: Abridged
Author: Peter Mayle
Narrator: Ben Chaplin
Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Finance
Publisher: Random House (Audio)
Published In: June 2004
# of Units: 4 CDs
Length: 5 hours
Ratings:
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Overview

From Peter Mayle, a wonderful new novel steeped in wine--and the business of wine?and set in, "bien sur, Provence.
Max Skinner is not exactly setting the London financial world on fire?and when his supervisor steals his biggest client, it's definitely time to inspect the vineyard in Provence that his recently departed uncle left him. Heartily and happily distracted upon his arrival by the landscape, the weather, and the food?not to mention the gorgeous "notaire handling the estate and the stunning owner of the local bistro?Max almost forgets about his inherited property."
Which might have been a good idea, because the wine produced there is swill. But then why, Max has to wonder, is his caretaker so anxious to acquire the land? When a beautiful young woman from California arrives with what might be a legitimate claim on the estate, and knowledge of vineyards that far outstrips Max's own, the plot begins its twists and turns into and out of truly wonderful complications and resolutions.
This is luscious reading?soothing us with the sensual wonders of Provence while it tells a fascinating tale of the hugely lucrative and competitive boutique-wine trade. It is Peter Mayle's most satisfying, most delectable novel yet.

"From the Hardcover edition.

Reviews (7)

Mild wine

Written by tom on November 18th, 2009

  • Book Rating: 3/5

This moves along slowly and tells a rather soap opera type story. I kept waiting for something interesting to happen, but it did not. Saving grace is that the author paints a good picture of southern France...you feel you are there......but not much goes on.

A Good Year

Written by Jess Robinson on February 19th, 2008

  • Book Rating: 5/5

I really loved this book. I listen mostly to nonfiction, and the author managed to weave threads of real estate investing and wine-making education into a thoroughly delightful story. I was immediately swept away to dreary London and the magic of Provence while listening to this audio book. I have been tempted to rent the movie of the same title, starring Russell Crow, but have refrained for fear that the movie would spoil my book experience. I recommend you listen to this selection if you're at all seduced by wine and travel.

A good Year

Written by Larry Brinckerhoff on December 11th, 2007

  • Book Rating: 5/5

This was a GREAT book. Great fun. Get it - you will love it.

A Good Year

Written by Anonymous from St. Louis, MO on June 18th, 2007

  • Book Rating: 4/5

A light, "fun to read" story which almost transports one to rural France. The book tells an interesting tale of Provence, the wine trade and an odd assortment of local characters. Not deep or complex, it is a nice summer read.

Great, really good listen

Written by Anonymous from Bush, LA on May 2nd, 2007

  • Book Rating: 5/5

Fun, charming, good story and just a good book that will make you smile, relax, and want to listen to more. It will also make you want to go outside on a nice day and wine

GOod Year

Written by Robert Mathieu on December 14th, 2004

  • Book Rating: 5/5

Classic Peter Mayle. Light, humerous, and an easy, entertaining, non-confrontational read.

Good Year

Written by Anonymous from Glendale, CA on October 22nd, 2004

  • Book Rating: 4/5

Enjoyable, light. Narrated well. Good to listen to after a more demanding story.

Author Details

Author Details

Mayle, Peter

Peter Mayle is the author of A Year in Provence and Toujours Provence, as well as the novels Hotel Pastis, A Dog's Life, and Anything Considered. His books have been translated into twenty-two languages. He divides his time between the south of France and Long Island.